Beyond Coal Montana

In the coal-rich eastern third of Montana, the Sierra Club is actively challenging the proposed mining of 1.3 billion tons of coal, known as the Otter Creek development, and the proposed Tongue River railroad to carry the coal. We are also organizing citizens in that region to stand up against two proposed coal-to-liquids facilities, both of which would be mine-mouth operations. In addition, we have partnered with the nearby Northern Cheyenne tribal members in an effort to promote clean energy development on the reservation while keeping coal reserves buried safely below tribal lands. Moving to the western part of the state, the Club is working diligently to ensure the Northwest Power and Conservation Council - the preeminent energy planner for the Northwest - includes in its upcoming 20-year power plan strong modeling that would lead to a phase-out of coal power. Our other focus in western Montana centers on getting the state's largest investor-owned utility, Northwestern Energy, to agree to reducing and eventually phasing coal from its energy portfolio. 

Take Action

The Northwest Power and Conservation Council, the region's preeminent energy planner, has recently concluded the round of public hearings on its draft Sixth Power Plan. But the public comment period doesn't end until Nov. 6. If you haven't commented yet, now is the time to let the Council know that our reliance on dirty coal-fired power must end and give way to clean energy. 

This energy plan, which will run for the next 20 years, can set a strong course for Montana, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington away from coal-fired power and toward clean energy and conservation. And this plan must address reducing the region's carbon emissions. But in order for this to happen, the Council must hear from you! Don't let this opportunity pass, comment today! See attached talking points for assistance.

Blog Updates